Apple confirms iPads in the EU will support sideloading of third-party apps and search engines this fall

On May 2, Apple issued an advisory to developers revealing significant changes that are planned for iPadOS in the European Union later this fall. These changes are in response to the designation of iPadOS as a “guardian” by the European Commission under the Digital Markets Regulation (DMA).

These changes significantly expand regulatory scrutiny on Apple, forcing the tech giant to adapt its tablet ecosystem to comply with DMA requirements. These requirements include allowing third-party app stores, supporting app sideloading, offering third-party payment options, and making non-WebKit versions of Safari available on iPadOS.

Sideloading of Third-Party Apps and App Stores

The most notable change is that iPad users in the EU will be able to install third-party app markets and download apps from these alternative sources, a practice known as “sideloading”. This represents a significant shift from Apple’s traditionally closed ecosystem, where the App Store is the only distribution channel for iOS and iPadOS apps.

Additionally, iPadOS will support third-party search engines, breaking Apple’s long-standing requirement that all browsers on its platforms use the WebKit rendering engine. This change will allow for greater browser diversity and competition on the iPad.

Browser Selection by Default

Another important change is the introduction of a new warning in Safari, which will ask users which browser they want to use by default. This gives iPad owners more control over their browsing experience, rather than being stuck with Apple’s Safari by default.

Web Distribution

Apple is also enabling a “web distribution” feature, which will allow users to download applications directly from the developer’s website, bypassing the App Store completely. This provides developers with an alternative distribution channel and gives users more options for accessing the apps they want.

Changes to the Base Technology Rate (CTF)

In addition to these changes visible to users, Apple also introduced new policies related to its Base Technology Fee (CTF). The CTF is a fee that Apple charges developers for using its proprietary technologies and frameworks.

In the future, the CTF will apply to iPadOS applications distributed through the App Store, online channels and downloaded from other markets. This means that users who install the same app on both iOS and iPadOS within 12 months will only generate one initial app install per year, reducing the overall CTF burden.

Exemptions from the CTF

Apple also introduced two CTF exemptions:

1. Developers Without Income: If a developer does not have any income, it will not be necessary to pay the CTF.
2. Small Developers: Developers with a global annual commercial revenue of less than €10 million will receive free CTF tickets for three years.

These exemptions aim to support smaller and independent developers, who could be disproportionately affected by the CTF.

Implications for the iPad Ecosystem (sideloading of third-party apps and browsers)

The changes announced by Apple represent a significant shift in the iPad ecosystem, especially in the European Union. By enabling sideloading, third-party search engines and alternative distribution channels, Apple is opening the platform to greater competition and user choice.

This action is a direct response to the designation of iPadOS as a “guardian” by the European Commission under the DMA regulations. Apple’s compliance with these new rules suggests that the company is willing to adapt its traditionally closed approach to maintain its presence in the European market.

The introduction of changes to the CTF, including exemptions for developers with no income or small annual revenues, indicates that Apple is also seeking to balance the needs of its developer community with new regulatory requirements.

These changes could have far-reaching implications for the iPad ecosystem, potentially leading to a more diverse app landscape, greater competition and greater user empowerment. However, it remains to be seen how these changes will be implemented and how they will affect the overall iPad experience for both users and developers.

Conclusion

Apple’s announcement of upcoming changes to iPadOS in the European Union represents a significant shift in the company’s approach to its tablet platform. By enabling sideloading, third-party search engines and alternative distribution channels, Apple is responding to regulatory pressure and opening the iPad ecosystem to greater competition and user choice. The extension of DMA regulations to include iPadOS reflects the European Commission’s increased scrutiny of Apple. This is forcing the company to adapt its platform to comply with new mandates. These changes, such as allowing third-party app stores, supporting app sideloading and others, mean a departure from Apple’s traditionally closed ecosystem.

The introduction of changes to the CTF, including exemptions for certain developers, suggests that Apple is also looking to balance the needs of its developer community with new regulatory requirements. These changes could have far-reaching implications for the iPad ecosystem, potentially leading to a more diverse app landscape, greater competition and greater user empowerment.

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